death's embrace

i hope that death feels like

slipping into the next room;

that i will wake up hearing the voices of

those who came before me, and those who

have yet to cross.

i hope that it feels like i am wrapped in my favorite

yellow comforter, warmth enveloping my body and the

scent of lavender fabric softener finding home in my

nostrils once again.

i hope that when my eyes open in the

afterlife they are met with warm

sunshine and the faces of

my grandparents, still as worn and welcoming

as i can recall.

i hope that i will be able to savor

the joyful taste

of a drink shared with

friends long gone.

i hope that death is gentle.